A 67-year-old man who died in a flat fire in Middleton has been named as David Steven Mills. Emergency services were called to a block on Baguley Crescent shortly after 2.30pm on Saturday 7 November 2026 after a blaze broke out in a first-floor flat.
Emergency response and confirmation of death
Three fire engines from Blackley, Whitefield and Broughton stations attended the scene, close to the border with Prestwich. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used two hose reels to extinguish the fire. Despite the efforts of firefighters and paramedics, a man died at the scene.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said in a statement on Sunday: "At 2.45pm yesterday (Saturday 7 November 2026), we were called to reports of an ongoing fire at an address on Baguley Crescent. Officers attended the scene along with colleagues from the Greater Manchester Fire Rescue Service (GMFRS) and North West Ambulance Service (NWAS). Sadly, a man in his 60s passed away at the scene, despite the best efforts from emergency services. Investigations are ongoing."
Appeal for next of kin
Police are appealing for help tracing the man's next of kin. In a statement posted on social media, GMP said: "Do you know the next of kin of a man from #Middleton? David Steven Mills, 67, sadly passed away at his address on Baguley Crescent, #Middelton on 07/11/2026. There are believed to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. Anyone with information about David's next of kin should contact the Police Coroner’s Office on 0161 856 8555."
Tributes from the community
The 67-year-old was described by locals as 'a very kind man', 'a gentleman' and 'a friend of the community'. Margaret Moulding, who lived across from Mr Mills, said: "He was a very helpful man. He was very kind and it’s very sad. Everyone is shocked and upset by this. He was known as a legend in the community."
Francesca Estasy, who knew Mr Mills from the estate, said: "When I found out it was Dave, who has been here as long as me, it was really sad. As I was only speaking to him a couple of weeks ago."
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said on Saturday: "Just after 2.30pm on Saturday 7 November, fire crews were called to reports of a fire at a residential building on Baguley Crescent. Three fire engines from Blackley, Whitefield and Broughton stations attended the incident, which involved a first-floor flat. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used two hose reels to extinguish the fire."
